The USPTO has opened a search for a Senior Ombudsman--its first Organizational Ombuds. The position will, "design, develop, and implement the USPTO-wide ombudsman program, to including conducting research; identifying issues, goals, scope, and constituencies impacted; and planning for program implementation, training, and evaluation." In addition, the new Ombuds will help redesign and expand the agency's dispute systems and processes.
Previously, the agency had only an external Ombuds program to assist parties involved in the patent application process. Applicants must be a USPTO or Commerce Department employees and a U.S. citizen. The one-week application period closes tomorrow, June 23, 2016. The GS-14 position pays $108,887 to $141,555 per year. (USAJobs.)
Generally, a short application period and specific qualifications for a new government Ombuds position mean that an internal candidate is already being considered informally.
Generally, a short application period and specific qualifications for a new government Ombuds position mean that an internal candidate is already being considered informally.
If the USPTO wants a reputable program, why wouldn't they advertise all sources and open it up to the hundreds of qualified people with ombudsman experience. There are over a hundred certified ombudsman worldwide. Why not even open it government-wide, which has a couple hundred people serving in ombudsman and ADR roles that could qualify. I thought preselection was a prohibited personnel practice? Honestly how many internal candidates would be qualified? As a taxpayer I'm frustrated with wasting resources if they have someone in mind. As a dispute resolution professional, I'm angry that there isn't even an opportunity to be considered. USPTO isn't off to a good start with their ombudsman program if they're starting off with a blatantly unfair PPP; who's going to trust it if this is how they operate?
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